South Carolina’s State Forests have new closures, restrictions due to coronavirus
South Carolina State Forests’ offices and recreation facilities will be closed, but the forests will remain open.
The state’s Forestry Commission announced the changes on Tuesday as coronavirus continues to impact South Carolina. Walk-ins from the public will no longer be allowed access to the offices at the five state forests, which are:
- Sand Hills State Forest in Chesterfield and Darlington counties.
- Manchester State Forest in Sumter County.
- Harbison Environmental Education Forest in Richland County.
- Wee Tee State Forest in Williamsburg County.
- Poe Creek State Forest in Oconee and Pickens counties
All public spaces at the state forests, such as restrooms, meeting rooms, camping areas, cabins and rental shelters, are now closed.
The forests will remain open, and permits are not required for hikers. Permitting in the forests, such as for horseback, ATV, motorcycle and bicycle use, will be accessible only online.
Hunting will continue at some of the forests.
The Forest Commission also canceled or postponed all facility reservations and scheduled events at the five forests. The changes and restrictions will remain in place indefinitely.
This story was originally published March 17, 2020 at 2:58 PM.
